852.00/4365: Telegram
The Ambassador in Italy ( Phillips ) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 14—2:58 p.m.]
20. My 17, January 12, 5 p.m. I understand that when the British Ambassador presented the last British communication relating to Italian volunteers he sought in addition to secure an undertaking from the Italians that during the present negotiations no further organized volunteer troops would be sent to Spain. This has been turned down by Italy on the ground that Italy could not commit itself as long as volunteers from other countries were going to Spain.
It has also been indicated that no prompt reply will be made either by Italy or Germany to this communication.